Key Points
- Apple launched the new iPad mini with advanced AI features, including improved writing tools and an upgraded Siri assistant.
- The iPad mini is powered by the A17 Pro chip, offering a 30% increase in CPU performance compared to previous models.
- AI features will be rolled out starting with iPadOS 18.1, initially in the U.S. version of English, with further updates expected.
- New tools like image generation, Genmoji, and ChatGPT-powered features will be introduced over the next several months.
On Tuesday, Apple (AAPL.O) unveiled the latest generation of the iPad mini, featuring advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, including enhanced writing tools and a more sophisticated Siri assistant. The new release marks another step in Apple’s effort to integrate AI across its devices as it seeks to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Apple’s cutting-edge A17 Pro chip powers the new iPad mini, the same processor found in the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. The A17 Pro has a six-core central processing unit (CPU), delivering a 30% boost in CPU performance compared to the previous generation of iPad minis. This increase in processing power is crucial for running Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI software that powers many of the device’s new features.
One of the most significant updates to the iPad mini is the incorporation of AI-powered writing tools, which will enhance the overall user experience, particularly for content creation. The improved Siri assistant also offers more intelligent and responsive voice commands, marking a significant upgrade from earlier iterations.
Apple also announced that it would begin rolling out the first set of AI features to the U.S. version of the English language later this month as part of a software update with iPadOS 18.1. These features will be available to iPads equipped with the A17 Pro or M1 chips and newer models. Over the next several months, Apple plans to introduce more advanced capabilities, including image-generation tools, Genmoji, and ChatGPT-powered functions, as part of its continued push into AI.
In September, Apple launched its iPhone 16 lineup, incorporating AI enhancements. However, these features were still in development then, leading to mixed reactions from investors. Early sales data also sparked concerns about consumer demand for the new iPhones. Despite this, Canalys, a leading market research firm, predicted that the iPhone 16 would boost Apple’s sales during the fourth quarter of 2024 and help maintain strong momentum into the first half of 2025. Apple had previously achieved a record high in third-quarter shipments, driven largely by the success of its existing iPhone models.
The new iPad mini, which starts at $499, is now available for pre-order and will begin shipping to customers and Apple store locations next week. As Apple continues integrating AI into its devices, the company aims to stay ahead of competitors while providing enhanced user experiences across its product lineup.
